Leicester researchers present findings at Parkinson’s conference

Study reveals important genetic clues about the origins of Parkinson’s

Dr Flaviano Giorgini

Researchers from the University of Leicester were present at the Parkinson’s UK research conference this week, where they revealed findings on the role of a rare inherited gene, believed to be involved in the development of early-onset Parkinson’s.

The study, conducted by Dr Flaviano Giorgini and Dr Mariaelena Repici from the Department of Genetics, looks at the role of the gene, DJ-1, which is believed to be linked to the development of Parkinson’s. The gene produces a protein that helps to protect cells from certain types of damage.

According to Dr Giorgini, this is the first time they have been able to try to understand why the gene is linked to Parkinson’s. By using cutting-edge microscopic imaging techniques, they were able to see how the protein behaves inside living human cells.

The research, which was funded by a grant from Parkinson’s UK, was produced in collaboration with the University of Göttingen, Germany.